Stockton Widens Lead

Dave Stockton shot his second straight 67 to build a record seven-stroke lead after three rounds of the U.S. Senior Open.

Stockton, who started the day with a one-stroke lead over Bob Charles, pushed his advantage to four shots by the time he reached the sixth tee, then almost moved out of sight with birdies at the 15th and 16th holes. His 5-under-par 67 was the best round of the day. Following rounds of 70 and 67, he was at 12-under 204 through 54 holes at Canterbury Golf Club in suburban Cleveland.

Steve Stricker took a five-stroke lead after three rounds of the Western Open at Lemont, Ill., making seven birdies on the front nine to assume command of what had been a close tournament. Stricker shot a 67 for a 15-under-par, three-day total of 201.

Joan Pitcock shot a 5-under-par 66 to take the lead of the Jamie Farr Kroger Classic in Sylvania, Ohio, after two rounds as first-round leader Meg Mallon was disqualified for signing an incorrect scorecard. Pitcock was at 8-under 134 and held a three-stroke lead over six players, including Tracy Hanson of Rathdrum. Clarkston’s Robin Walton scored 146 in two rounds and failed to qualify.